In spring when you trim it back, pull aside some of the mulch down to about two or three inches to help the soil warm up faster. (This plant really likes heat.) Spring is also the time to fertilize, using for example compost and/or a complete granular slow release fertilizer such as 10-10-10 according to the label instructions.

Then, patience is required until the plant begins to grow again. A plant on a sheltered south facing slope with reflected heat will begin to grow sooner than one in a more exposed location. I am not certain, based on your description, if your plants are truly dead or not -- they may still be gathering strength to regrow. If they do manange to leaf out, they will grow fast and bloom nicely for you because they bloom on the new growth of the season.

You might also want to compare notes with gardeners in your neighborhood, to see if they are having success or trouble with this plant -- this might yield some interesting information for you about your microclimate and growing conditions.

I hope your plants are okay and I'm sorry about your frustration. If they are not okay, I hope this helps you trouble shoot. In some areas gardeners like it well enough to replant it each spring just so they can enjoy it later in the season, even though it is not hardy for them.

but with luck will regenerate from the roots.)

In spring when you trim it back, pull aside some of the mulch down to about two or three inches to help the soil warm up faster. (This plant really likes heat.) Spring is also the time to fertilize, using for example compost and/or a complete granular slow release fertilizer such as 10-10-10 according to the label instructions.

Then, patience is required until the plant begins to grow again. A plant on a sheltered south facing slope with reflected heat will begin to grow sooner than one in a more exposed location. I am not certain, based on your description, if your plants are truly dead or not -- they may still be gathering strength to regrow. If they do manange to leaf out, they will grow fast and bloom nicely for you because they bloom on the new growth of the season.

You might also want to compare notes with gardeners in your neighborhood, to see if they are having success or trouble with this plant -- this might yield some interesting information for you about your microclimate and growing conditions.

I hope your plants are okay and I'm sorry about your frustration. If they are not okay, I hope this helps you trouble shoot. In some areas gardeners like it well enough to replant it each spring just so they can enjoy it later in the season, even though it is not hardy for them.